UFC 304 start time and tickets at Manchester Co-op Live as Tom Aspinall blasts 'absolutely terrible' decision

UFC star Tom Aspinall has blasted the ‘absolutely terrible’ call to stage the Manchester Co-op Live event at a time to suit a US audience.

Wigan’s interim heavyweight champion is expected to be the star attraction of UFC 304 on July 27. But eyebrows have been raised at the news the event will not start until 11pm and could run until 6am.

Despite the huge fight night taking place in the UK, the decision is designed to maximise pay-per-view revenue across the pond. Aspinall himself is going to feature on the main card which is expected to start around 3am.

From a sporting prospective, Aspinall has no issues, but sees it as a poor message to fans of the sport in Manchester, the UK and even Europe.

“As an athlete, as a fighter, in all honesty it doesn’t make that much difference,” the Atherton man said on his YouTube channel. ”Probably for a couple of weeks before I’ll have to wake up and train at that time or stay up or whatever. I’ve flown across the world multiple times and fought in different time zones so it’s not as bad as that.

“As a fan, who wants to watch it live I think it is absolutely terrible. It’s just not fair on the UK fans. Obviously predominantly it’s an American audience so I understand that they want to sell to them but why can’t they sell to them in the afternoon which is our evening time.

“Why can’t the Americans watch it in the afternoon and the UK fans, the Manchester fans, the European fans, can all fly to this event, sell out this new arena? It’s going to sell out regardless, we’re very, very, very lucky to have PPV event in Manchester but it’s UK MMA. Let’s put it on UK time.”

What is the fight card for UFC 304 at Co-op Live?

There are no fights announced so far but Aspinall has confirmed he is appearing. Fellow Wiganer Muhammad Mokaev will also be eyeing a spot on the card as he builds towards a title shot. Other top British stars are expected to feature including Leon Edwards and Paddy Pimblett.

How to get tickets for UFC 304 at Co-op Live

Tickets go on sale from 10am on Friday, June 7, via Ticketmaster. UFC Fight Club members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets early on Wednesday, June 5, at 9am.

Those who registered their interest in the event will gain access to a special pre-sale which starts Thursday, June 6, at 10am. Fans are advised to register their interest early via ufc.com/Manchester